In the canal city of Osaka, river and coastal cruising is very popular, with various companies providing cruise services. Osaka Suijo Bus Co. Ltd., boasting a legacy of nearly 40 years, operates public and private cruises, catering to a diverse clientele ranging from tourists to local residents. Among the fleet of vessels owned by Osaka Suijo Bus Co., the grandest is the Santa Maria. Designed to be double the size of Columbus’s flagship that touched the shores of the Americas in 1492, the Santa Maria glides through Osaka’s waterways from Mount Tenpo to the Port of Osaka, offering breathtaking views of the Bayside. The four-deck interior features amenities such as a food counter and an observation deck, making it an entertaining and enjoyable cruise experience for individuals of all ages.

The Santa Maria cruise ship with a classic sail is inspired by Columbus’s flagship.  It departs from the west ferry terminal that stretches from the Tempozan Harbor Village to the Kaiyukan Aquarium. Boarding fees for the Day Cruise are ¥1800 for adults and ¥900 for elementary school students. Each adult may be accompanied by one infant, whose entry will be free of charge.

*Prices are effective from April 1, 2024.

The ship boasts several observation spaces, and passengers are free to roam anywhere on the ship except the First Class room on the third floor (available for an additional entry fee of ¥500, which includes a drink). The open deck provides a magnificent view of the scenery with a refreshing sea breeze. The cruise also features live music and other events.

The Day Cruise lasts approximately 45 minutes, circling from Mount Tenpo to Sakurajima Island and Nanko Port. During the tour, passengers can enjoy views of landmarks like the Kaiyukan Aquarium and its huge Ferris wheel, as well as container terminals. Also noteworthy are the imposing sights of massive bridges like the Tempozan Bridge and Minato Bridge.

The ship boasts various amenities. The first-floor cabin, Sala de Colon (Columbus’s Room), features essential navigation tools on permanent display, allowing visitors to delve into the history of the Age of Discovery.

The second-floor cabin, Sala de Patio, houses a food counter offering light snacks and drinks, including Frankfurters, rice burgers, and soft-serve ice cream. Dining while gazing at the Bayside Area through the windows is a priceless experience.

Twilight Cruises operate seasonally from April to May, July to October, and during Christmas. Boarding fees are ¥2300 for adults and ¥1150 for elementary school students. In addition to the Day Cruise route, it explores the artificial islands Maishima and Yumeshima, allowing passengers to relish the captivating sunset. The duration is approximately 60 minutes.

*Prices are effective from April 1, 2024.

ACCESS

Subway: Approximately 10 minutes on foot from Osaka Metro Chuo Line Osakako Station.
City Bus: A short walk from Osaka City Bus’s Tempozan Harbor Village bus stop.
Car: About 5 minutes from the Tempozan Interchange on Route 16 of the Hanshin Expressway.
Ship: Approximately 10 minutes by ship (Captain Line) from Universal City Port.

For detailed information on the Santa Maria Cruise, click here.

Information presented here is current as of 2024. Please check the websites of the individual shops and facilities for up-to-date information on business hours.